Roasted Tomato and Basil Cream Penne

• 12 oz penne
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cherry tomatoes, red onion, and half the minced garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes.
2. 2 Meanwhile, cook penne according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a saucepan, heat remaining garlic and olive oil over medium heat until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. 4 Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
5. 5 Combine roasted vegetables with the cooked penne and creamy sauce. Stir in fresh basil.
6. 6 Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and optional red pepper flakes.

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking sheet
• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon

Variations

• Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Substitute penne with another pasta shape like fusilli or farfalle.

Substitutions

• Use almond milk for a lighter sauce, adjusting thickness with a cornstarch slurry if needed.
• Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

Pairings

• A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio complements this dish beautifully.
• A side of garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes alongside cherry tomatoes.
• Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to mop up every last bit of sauce.

FAQ